MAYOR Wes Gatchalian revealed on Tuesday that a mental health program primarily for wellness support and accessible to students from both public and private schools in Valenzuela City has been launched.
Called Panatag (Peace of Mind/Tranquility) Mental Health program, Gatchalian marked a step forward in the city government’s commitment to making this support and mental assistance readily available to Valenzuelanos, with a particular focus on students.
Developed in partnership with Mindscapes by PhilCare, the program is a comprehensive one-stop hub for mental health and wellness services, with a strong emphasis on the customer journey to ensure the highest standards of data security and privacy.
Services offered include psychological consultations, nutritionist and social worker evaluations, MindCheck screenings, and around‑the‑clock MS Chat and Helpline support, according to the local government.
“More importantly, the program extends its coverage to dependents and other household members, broadening the scope of support beyond the individual student and into the wider community,” Gatchalian told The Manila Times.
The city government said that to fully avail of the mental health services, students are required to register using email accounts provided by Mindscapes.
The registration process allows students to access a range of services, ensuring their participation is properly facilitated and securely managed, according to the city government.
At the core of the initiative is the establishment of mental health hubs on the campuses of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela and Valenzuela Technological College (ValTech), the mayor said.
He emphasized that these dedicated spaces will offer students a safe and approachable environment where they can find appropriate mental health support right within their school premises.
Complementing the physical hubs is the program's 24/7 MS Chat and Helpline support, which gives beneficiaries access to immediate, confidential, and compassionate assistance whenever they need someone to listen, offer guidance, or help them navigate their concerns, he added.
Through the partnership, the city government said it aims to cultivate a more nurturing environment where students feel empowered to openly seek help without fear of judgment, and where mental health concerns are met with timely and effective interventions.
"We cannot bring back the lives we have lost. But we can ensure that when the next young person says, 'I am no longer OK,' there will be someone to listen. Someone to help. Someone to lean on. That is why it is not enough to simply say, 'We are here for you.' We must ensure that they have a real place to turn to,” Gatchalian said.
“That is why here in Valenzuela City, we are launching the first LGU (local government unit)‑supported, school‑based mental health program in the Philippines, beginning right here at PLV and ValTech," he pointed out.
